Ernst lauds executive order protecting meat processors, nation’s food supply chain

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) applauded an April 28 executive order signed by the president to ensure that the nation’s beef, pork and poultry processors in the food supply chain continue operating and fulfilling orders, action she has continually advocated for during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sen. Ernst was among several lawmakers who sent an April 27 letter to members of the federal Coronavirus Task Force urging that immediate assistance be provided to Iowa’s pork producers and the nation’s food supply chain.

“This is an emergency in our rural communities unlike any seen in recent history,” wrote Sen. Ernst and her colleagues. “Swift and decisive action will be required to preserve Iowa’s farm communities and ensure that safe, affordable and abundant food remains available in this crisis. We ask for your immediate assistance in addressing these critical needs.”

“The president has heeded our calls, and is taking this very strong step in making sure our nation’s food supply chain remains secure and strong: from farmer to plant, to grocery store, to kitchen table,” Sen. Ernst said on April 29.

Producers and meat processing plants in Iowa, the country’s top pork-producing state, play an essential role in America’s food supply chain, said the senator.

“This week, without a market to go to, our producers are facing grave decisions to euthanize their hogs, which is why I joined my fellow Iowa leaders in calling on the administration for immediate action and assistance, including using the Defense Production Act,” Sen. Ernst explained. “We must ensure the hardworking Iowans — the essential, front line workers during COVID-19 — at these processing plants are safe.”

Sen. Ernst also said she’s glad to see that as part of the executive order, President Donald Trump directed U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to ensure all necessary materials and resources, including personal protective equipment, make their way to agricultural workers.

“In addition, there’s no question that our processing plants must adhere to important safety guidelines to protect the health of Iowa’s workers,” she said.